Thanks both. I was idly daydreaming about getting a Laviolette but wanted to avoid belt changes... but then I read that the later Audi V8 chain tensioners and chains can self destruct at moderate mileages too (keep a listen out when you get to 60k+ miles!). So who knows what's best!!

Today we changed the accessory belt of the chain driven BHF engine. Even though the shop manual wants you to remove the engine, Tom did do it from below with the engine in place. We had to cut an allen wrench down, because it is so tight in there, but it can be done. It was a less than 30 minute job

Today we changed the accessory belt of the chain driven BHF engine. Even though the shop manual wants you to remove the engine, Tom did do it from below with the engine in place. We had to cut an allen wrench down, because it is so tight in there, but it can be done. It was a less than 30 minute job